How to plan your first solo trip ever

Travelling solo can be fun, but also stressful at the same time. If you have never travelled alone before, the trip could be challenging and also adventurous for you. Solo travel is not so easy. You need to be independent in order to go solo. Everyone should make at least one solo trip in their life. The kick gives you and the memories you will make will be out of the world. You see new places, meet new people, socialize like never before, and all of that just by yourself. Imagine there is no one around you to judge you for the same. Although, you must keep certain things in mind when you are planning a solo trip. 

Tips to plan out your first solo trip: 

There is a lot of preparation that goes behind solo travelling. An ample of things have to be planned beforehand. 

• Decide a perfect destination for your trip- Think of a place you have always wanted to travel to and has been on your bucket list. Choosing the right place for your solo trip is one of the most difficult yet the most important decisions. If you have a list of places, choose the one you love the most. You will have all the time in the world to explore the place because you will be all by yourself. Choose someplace that won’t bore you and will also keep you company even when you are alone. Choose someplace that will motivate you and make you feel excited. 

• Do some homework beforehand- Solo trips are flexible but that does not mean that you will just pack your bags randomly and hit the road. You will have plenty of homework to do. Check out the weather of that place, food options, sightseeing, adventurous activities and most importantly your stay options. Discover a few websites and choose the best for yourself. Think about your conveyance and any specific requirements you need to fulfill before visiting the place. If you know somebody who has previously been to that place, talk to them about it and get to know more. 

• Draw out a budget for your trip- Money is one of the most important aspects to deal with when you are going on a solo trip. You must have a decent idea about all your expenses before the trip starts. Plan out on how much your transportation and accommodation are going to cost you. Also, include food, sightseeing, and other activities that will require money. Have a fixed budget for your trip so that you don’t overspend or fall short of money on the trip. All the expenses are going to be handled by you and hence only you will be responsible for the trip and the budget you chalk out. 

• Book tickets well in advance- When you are planning a solo trip, make sure you book your tickets as soon as you finalize the destination and the budget. If you book tickets in advance, it could save you a lot of money and you will also know when and where you are heading finally, which will give you a whole new level of excitement. Try to book the cheapest yet comfortable mode of travel. Book your accommodation only right after you have a confirmed ticket with you in your hand. This way you will get away with the trouble of going through places offline. There are many offers that are accessible on the internet all through the year. Check out the best deals and then go for the one which interests and suits you the most. 

• Convince your parents for your solo trip- Convincing your parents about anything at all is a tough job, and when it comes to solo trips it is almost next to impossible. Talk to them beforehand and show them where you are going, where you will be staying, why you want to take this trip, and how perfectly you have planned everything that too under a fixed budget. Be prepared for some really strong hitting questions that they might shoot your way, but you don’t lose hope and keep trying till they say a YES! 

• Pack very smartly- When you are travelling alone, you will have to carry all your luggage by yourself. Make sure that you pack light and also smart at the same time. Take a good handy suitcase or a backpack for packing all your stuff in it. How you pack your stuff will make your travelling around easier and hassle-free. Carry only the things which are really essential. Avoid taking things with you which even your accommodation could provide. You never know how much you will have to travel and hence to create the least mess, pack in a smart manner. Plan and take your outfits for each day instead of carrying options. This way it will not get annoying and heavy for you. 

Few things you should definitely not forget when you are planning a solo trip

Solo trips can be extremely overwhelming and full of joy and peace. But, at the same time, they also come with a lot of responsibility. It is suggested to follow a few things when planning out your first solo trip.

• Use the public mode of transport instead of a private mode of transport to save yourself some money for fun. 

• Start your day early instead of stepping out late. You don’t want to miss out on anything fun about the places you choose to visit. 

• Try not to booze much. You will be on your own and hence, you are your own responsibility. There won’t be anyone with you to handle you if you pass out on alcohol. 

• Keep in constant touch with your family, friends, and your close ones at all times. They might be worried as it is your first solo trip. Keep them updated about your whereabouts all the time. Send pictures and video calls if possible. 

• Socialize as much as you want to, make friends, but don’t trust anybody too much. Try to keep safe and distant. 

Explore the place and discover yourself. Solo trips give beautiful memories. 

Also read: Make peace with yourself: 10 tips for body positivity